Modular pest control system

ABSTRACT

A modular pest control system which includes structure that is specifically designed to capitalize upon the physiology and/or behavior of a wide assortment of pests to render the system more attractive to the pests. The system is modular in nature whereby it may be configured as desired or necessary to target any combination of one or more species of pests. The modular system preferably includes, at minimum, a first component in the form of a pest control device that may be releasably connectable to a second component. The first component may contain one or more materials or structural features for controlling any individual species or combinations of species of ground crawling pests, termites and rodents. The second component may be a releasable base for securing the first component to vegetation, building surfaces and materials, or targeted areas of soil. Alternatively, the second component itself may be a pest control device that may be releasably connectable to the first component and which anchors the first component to the earth.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.09/145,904 filed Sep. 2, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,166 entitled PESTCONTROL SYSTEM INCLUDING COMPARTMENTS HAVING AREAS FOR RECEIVING PESTCONTROL MATERIALS OF DIFFERING PHYSICAL CONSISTENCIES.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates in general to pest control systems and inparticular to a modular pest control systems for controlling one or morespecies of pests.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A variety of systems have been produced for controlling pest populationsin and around residential and commercial structures. Included among themany pests typically targeted by such systems are crawling insects,flying insects, millipedes, centipedes, slugs, crickets, grasshoppers,termites and rodents. Many involve the use of repellants or baits whichmay be fatal to certain species of insect pests or rodent pests, forexample. Beyond the use of known attractants such as desirable baits(e.g., foods or pheromones), existing pest control system designsgenerally do not demonstrate thoughtful cognizance of and do notcapitalize on pest behavior and/or physiology in order to render thesystems particularly attractive and, therefore, especially lethal to thepests they are intended to control. With baits functioning essentiallyas the sole attractant, the success of these systems depends in greatmeasure upon their placement and accessibility. Hence, if the system isnot disposed, often serendipitously, relatively close to the target pestpopulation or is not constructed for ready access by the pests, theeffectiveness of the system may be considerably less than desired.

Moreover, other than pheromone or specific food bait designs, existingpest control systems rather indiscriminately attract and harm allspecies of pests, including desirable and undesirable species, thathappen upon the traps and are capable of accessing the bait. And it isnot believed that any existing systems can be initially configured toaccommodate one or more species of pests and then reconfigured toexclude certain of those species from all or a portion of the trap.Additionally, existing systems are not constructed such that one portionof the system is dedicated to the control of one species of pest, e.g.,ants, and other portion(s) of the system are dedicated to the control ofother species of pests, e.g., termites, rodents, etc.

Still further, existing systems have essentially immutableconstructions. That is, they are not modular and cannot be assembled andinstalled at a desired location to achieve highly selective speciescontrol, e.g., above ground ant control coupled with below groundtermite control, above ground rodent control coupled with below groundtermite control, above ground ant and/or rodent control coupled withabove or below ground termite control, or the like.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,042,192 and 5,148,626, for example, disclose aboveground, upright, shaft-like supports for foodstuffs, furniture and petfeeding bowls, among other things, which incorporate an insect repellantbarrier for preventing crawling insects from reaching the top of thesupports. To further frustrate invasion by crawling insects, the shaftsof the supports are disclosed as being preferably formed of slickmaterial for hindering the insects from obtaining firm footing thereon.Devices such as these are site-specific deterrents to certain species ofinsects but are essentially ineffective for insect or other pestcontrol.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,303,599 describes various embodiments of insect trapswhich can be either mounted on a stake or garbage can cover or suspendedfrom a support such as a tree, rail, rafter or the like. The trapincludes, inter alia, a water container and wicking means for conveyingwater from the water container to poison contained in another area ofthe trap in order to keep the poison moist. The trap is provided with nostructure which renders it especially inviting to particular species ofpests and is not equipped with structure for selectively targetingcertain species for pest control.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,695,776 discloses an above or below ground termite trapincluding grooved wooden termite baits impregnated with poison.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 2,825,996, 2,893,160 and 4,065,872 disclose insecticidecontainers supported by corrugated stakes which are insertable into theground or mountable to a support structure such as a wall or the like.Among their ascribed functions, the stake corrugations are provided topermit insects to gain access to the insecticide containers. Of thesepatents, U.S. Pat. No. 2,893,160 further comprises a child/pet shieldfor covering the insecticide container. The shield includes a roughenedouter surface created by a plurality of apertures which are punchedthrough the shield. The patent asserts, without explanation, that antsand other insects are attracted to the unit since numerous insects liketo crawl in and about roughened apertured surfaces.

U.S. Pat. No. 4,485,582 describes an insect feeding station including acover permanently affixed to a base which supports a poisonous baitcompartment. The base may include a tubular extension which may bethrust into the earth. Insects may enter the bait compartment throughthe tubular extension and openings provided in the cover. The stationprovides no structure for encouraging insects to be drawn thereto. Italso has no means for restricting access to the bait to certain speciesnor it is modular to permit selective configuration and reconfigurationto target desired species.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,427,743 provides a circular insect bait dispenser whichis secured to the ground by a stake. The dispenser includes an invertedbowl-shaped, circular cover which is releasably connected to a circularbase. The base may include several compartments which may accommodateseveral different types of bait for different insects or different typesof bait for the same insect. Like the bait station disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 4,485,582, the dispenser has no structure especially designedto attract insects. It also has no means for restricting access to thebait to certain species. And, it is not modular and therefore, cannot beconfigured in one way to control certain species of pests and thenreconfigured to target other desired species.

A need exists, therefore, for a pest control system which includesstructure specifically designed to capitalize upon the physiology and/orbehavior or pests to render the system more attractive to the pests.

A further need exists for a pest control system which is modular innature to permit the system to be configured and reconfigured toselectively target any combination of one or more species of pests.

A further advantage exists for a pest control system including means forrestricting access to all or a portion of the baited areas of the systemto selected species of pests.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a modular pest control system whichincludes structure that is specifically designed to capitalize upon thephysiology and/or behavior of a wide assortment of pests to render thesystem more attractive to the pests. The system is modular in naturewhereby it may be configured as desired or necessary to target anycombination of one or more species of pests.

The modular system preferably includes, at minimum, a first component inthe form of a pest control device that may be releasably connectable toa second component. The first component may contain one or morematerials or structural features for controlling any individual speciesor combinations of species of ground crawling pests, termites androdents.

The second component may be a releasable base for securing the firstcomponent to vegetation, building surfaces and materials, or targetedareas of soil. Alternatively, the second component itself may be a pestcontrol device that may be releasably connectable to the first componentand which anchors the first component to the earth.

Each of the components also preferably includes numerous additionalstructural features, which further enhance the performance of thesystem.

Other details, objects and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent as the following description of the presently preferredembodiments and presently preferred methods of practicing the inventionproceeds.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will become more readily apparent from the followingdescription of preferred embodiments thereof shown, by way of exampleonly, in the accompanying drawings wherein;

FIG. 1 is a side elevation view, in partial section, of a firstembodiment of a modular pest control system according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a soil anchor component of the modularpest control system according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a toggle member suitable for use withthe soil anchor of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is an inside elevation view of the toggle member of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of the toggle member of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the soil anchor of FIG. 2 with the togglemember of FIG. 3 pivotally attached thereto;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a punch tool for piercing hard soil inpreparation for insertion into the soil of a soil anchor component ofthe modular pest control system according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of a gap formed between dry soil and abuilding foundation;

FIG. 9 is a front elevation view of a soil anchor according to thepresent invention which is suitable for insertion into a gap formedbetween dry soil and a building foundation;

FIG. 10 is a side elevation view of the soil anchor of FIG. 9 disposedin a gap formed between dry soil and a building foundation;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a mounting bracket component of themodular pest control system according to the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a front elevation view of the mounting bracket of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a base portion of a first embodiment ofa pest control device according to the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the pest control device base portion ofFIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an elevational cross-section view taken along line 15—15 ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is an elevational cross-section view taken along line 16—16 ofFIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a top plan view of a cover portion of a first embodiment of apest control device according to the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of the cover portion of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a bottom plan view of the cover portion of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20 is an elevational cross-section view taken along line 20—20 ofFIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is an elevational cross-section view of the base portion of FIG.13 and the cover portion of FIG. 17 in assembled condition, as well as aside elevation view of a tool for facilitating release of the coverportion from the base portion;

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of a pest bait receptacle suitable forreceipt in the base portion of FIG. 13;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the pest bait receptacle of FIG. 22 inassembled condition;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the pest bait receptacle of FIG. 22with a label thereof removed to expose openings through which pests maygain access to the interior of the receptacle;

FIG. 25 is a view similar to FIG. 1 wherein the pest control deviceincludes at least one internally disposed tacky-surfaced glueboard;

FIG. 26 is a partially cut, partial cross-section view of a furtherembodiment of a modular pest control system according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 27 is an elevational cross-section view of a further embodiment ofa pest control device according to the present invention disposed abouta leg of a legged structure;

FIG. 28 is a side elevation view of a further embodiment of a pestcontrol device according to the present invention with a cover thereofomitted for clarity of illustration;

FIG. 29 is an end elevational view of the pest control device of FIG. 28disposed adjacent a baseboard;

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 30—30 of FIG. 28;

FIG. 31 is a top plan view of a further embodiment of a pest controldevice according to the present invention;

FIG. 32 is an elevational cross-section view taken along line 32—32 ofFIG. 31;

FIG. 33 is a horizontal cross-section view taken along line 33—33 ofFIG. 32;

FIG. 34 is a top plan view of a further embodiment of a pest controldevice according to the present invention;

FIG. 35 is an elevational cross-section view taken along line 35—35 ofFIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is an elevational cross-section view of a further embodiment ofa pest control device according to the present invention;

FIG. 37 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a pest controldevice according to the present invention;

FIG. 38 is a perspective view of the pest control device of FIG. 37 withthe covers thereof opened to expose the interior structures of theseveral internal compartments thereof;

FIG. 39 is a bottom perspective view of the pest control device of FIG.37 shown attached to a soil anchor, whereby the pest control device andsoil anchor constitute first and second components of a furtherembodiment of a modular pest control system according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 40 is a partially cut perspective view of the pest control deviceof FIG. 37;

FIGS. 41 and 42 are perspective views of removable trays for receivingpest control material and disposable in the pest control device of FIG.37;

FIG. 43 is a perspective view of a termite tube housing sectionaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of a pair of the termite tube housingsections of FIG. 43 joined to form a completed subterranean termite tubehousing;

FIGS. 45 and 46 are elevational views of the structure and manner ofoperation of a subterranean termite control device according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 47 is a top plan view of a substantially rigid termite controlmaterial according to the present invention suitable for use in asubterranean termite tube:

FIG. 48 is an elevational cross-section view taken along line 48—48 ofFIG. 47;

FIG. 49 is an elevation view of the exterior of the termite controlmaterial of FIG. 47;

FIG. 50 is a top plan view of a further embodiment of a substantiallyrigid termite control material according to the present inventionsuitable for use in a subterranean termite tube;

FIG. 51 is an elevational cross-section view of a further embodiment ofa termite control device according to the present invention;

FIG. 52 is an elevational cross-section view of a further embodiment ofthe modular pest control system according to the present invention; and

FIG. 53 is an elevational cross-section view of a further embodiment ofthe modular pest control system according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The several components of the modular pest control system of the presentinvention are designed, inter alia, to address the behavioralpreferences and tendencies, particularly movement behavior, and thephysiological needs of multiple commonly encountered pests in order tocontrol a broad variety of pest populations.

Pest Movement Attractants

Almost all pests have natural tendencies or senses that dictate how theymove through their environment. Rarely in the design of known pestcontrol systems, however, is more than casual attention devoted topests' locomotive traits as behavioral characteristics to be capitalizedupon in the design of the system in order to enhance system performance.Many general and specific pest movements for which pestattraction/control structure may be designed can be classified asfollows:

Edge-Of-Wall Effect: This is perhaps the most common movement behaviorof pests in general. Ants, rodents, crickets, cockroaches, millipedes,ground beetles and many other ground crawling pests travel along thebases of walls or similar wall/ground or wall/floor intersections. Thisbehavior is manifested by many pests because of their apparent desire toplace one antenna or whisker on the wall or upright surface whileplacing the other on the ground or similar traveling surface. It may beobserved at the juncture, in any plane, of substantially orthogonallydisposed surfaces such as wall/floor and wall/ceiling junctures and canbe exploited by designing pest control equipment that fits as closely aspossible to the face of a wall. In addition, natural voids or gaps areformed at the bases of exterior walls when soil dries, contracts, andseparates from the structure's foundation. This phenomenon creates anexcellent traveling juncture for many pests such as ants. When designingpest control equipment therefore, the equipment should be such that itremains close to the foundation and preferably projects into the void tointercept trailing and nesting pests.

Pest control system performance can be further enhanced by simulatingthe edge-of-wall effect at the outer peripheral regions of the stationwhich would function as a structural attractant.

Corner Effect: This is an extension of the edge-of-wall effect becausewalls or similar surfaces typically eventually lead to a corner (outeror inner). Corners are more likely to have higher pest activity becausethey represent the juncture of three usually mutually orthogonal planes.Purposefully designing pest control equipment to fit closely intocorners, therefore, would promote higher pest activity in and around theequipment.

Groove Effect: The groove found between two rows of bricks, slabs andthe like creates a natural pathway for small crawling pests such asants. Explanation of this behavior can be designed into pest controlequipment by making grooves that are too small to be attractive forpests other than ants so that ants can be attracted, for example, to adifferent compartment in a pest control station than compartmentsdesigned for other pests. The groove effect can also be used to lurepests into the equipment and reduce the likelihood of pests trailingaround the outside of the equipment and missing the toxicant or otherpest control means contained in the equipment.

Outer Edge Effect: Ants are one of the few common pests that followouter edges of structures, e.g., the outer edge on the top of a shelf ora vertical edge up the outer corner of a wall. This is another movementbehavior that can be accommodated by incorporating outer edge typestructure into pest control equipment to attract ants to desired areasin the equipment.

Ridge Effect: A raised ridge on a flat surface will direct many randomlyforaging pests from one direction to another. This behavioral tendencycan be used to direct pests such as ants from one area of a pest controldevice to another area where ant-specific baits may be located. Thisfeature can help prevent certain pests from entering a pest controldevice and exiting the device without finding the toxicants or otherpest control means contained therein. That is, without such ridgescertain pests may enter and exit the device without encountering thepest control agents.

Cable Effect: Ants, cockroaches, and certain other ground crawling pestsalso tend to travel along the upper surfaces of cables, wires, waterhoses, pipes and other elongate, rounded members. This is a common wayfor pests to enter a structure or quickly trail across a topographicallycomplicated area such as a yard. This trait can be exploited bydesigning pest control equipment which can be mounted to elongatesubstantially cylindrical members that are already in place around astructure (e.g., cable TV wires, water hoses, water pipes, etc.).Similarly, disposing rods, wires, cables, or similar substantiallycylindrical members to project from a pest control device in order toattract pests into the device would represent another way ofcapitalizing upon this particular behavioral pattern.

Harborage or Refuge Effect: When pests such as rodents and groundcrawling pests, e.g., cockroaches, crickets, ground beetles, centipedes,etc. first enter into a new area (such as when carried indoors withstored products or when they crawl under an exterior door), they quicklyseek shelter. The basic need to forage into new areas is driven by thesearch for food. However, when faced with new surroundings, most pestsinitially seek protection by following closely along edges of wallsuntil finding a suitable hiding site. Once secure in the new harboragethey will resume the search for food. Because of many pests' tendency tofind protection rapidly, it is possible to design equipment thatprovides an attractive “false harborage”, described in greater detailhereinafter, which can be placed at key locations where pests firstenter a structure. For instance, rodents, crickets and ground beetlesusually enter under doorways. Thus, equipment should be designed tointercept such pests just inside of doorways/garage doors. Germancockroaches and other pests, however, may first enter a grocery orrestaurant when carried in with infested boxes of supplies. These pestscan be intercepted by designing equipment that can be properlypositioned at the top of baseboards or at the bases of shelving legs.

Upward Movement Effect: Some pests such as cockroaches can readily crawlon vertical surfaces and have a natural tendency to crawl upwards insearch of harborages or food. This habit can be targeted with equipmentdesigns by incorporating features that allow placement onto verticalsurfaces and, particularly, vertical corners. Such equipment may includea false harborage, a tacky-surfaced trap known as a glueboard or apoisonous bait.

Downward Wall Movement and Baseboard Tracking Effect: When Germancockroaches and other pests are first introduced into a new environment(e.g., in an infested box carried into a storage room in a restaurant),they have two options of leaving the infested box and finding other foodand harborage sources. The first is to climb onto the wall and thesecond is to climb down the legs of the storage shelving. If a box istouching a wall, cockroaches' first tendency is to move upward. If thestorage area is cluttered so as to interfere with air flow and lighttransmission, the cockroaches may crawl to the ceiling line and move tothe corner. However, in many cases, there is too much air movement andlight whereby, when moving upward on the exposed wall, the cockroacheswill go back down the wall toward less air and less light. Upon turningdownward, the first straight edge a cockroach will normally encounter isthe top of the baseboard. Their tendency is then to follow the top ofthe baseboard which will lead to either a corner of a room or a doorframe. One of the most important pest control equipment design featuresfor preventing introduced cockroaches and other pests from becomingestablished indoors is the capability for attachment to the top of abaseboard. Pest control equipment placed at the top of the baseboardshould therefore serve multiple purposes including attracting pests witha false harborage, baiting the pests to kill them, and/or trapping somepests with glueboards as a monitor the extent of infestation of newlyreleased pests.

Upward or Downward Equipment Tracking Effect: Many of the harboragelocations for German cockroaches within a structure such as a residence,grocery or a commercial restaurant are associated with sinks,appliances, and shelving, as well as the frames and legs of suchequipment. This provides the ability to predict the movement ofcockroaches within such environments. The pests must leave theseharborages in search of food using one or two routes: up or down a wall,as described above, or down the legs of the equipment. As noted, pestcontrol devices may be designed for placement at the corners on top ofbaseboards which can intercept those pests moving down the wall. Stillother pest control systems may surround the base of equipment a leggingwith glueboards, false harborages, baiting and/or treatment devices. Thepresent invention therefore also contemplates pest control devices thatmay surround equipment legging to prevent upward movement of cockroachesand other pests.

Pest Physiology Attractants

According to the present invention, structural provision for pheromones,food, water and other attractants can also be incorporated into thedesign of pest control equipment to better enhance the effectiveness oftraps and toxicants contained within the equipment. Air flow over suchattractants is important since the ‘smell’ is transmitted by airmovement. Equipment can be designed to maximize air flow over theattractant from all areas or in a particular direction (dependent onstation position). Accordingly, structural provision for pheromonal andrelated scent-based attractants may be included into pest controlequipment designs to entice specific pests to one or more specificarea(s) within the equipment. If a unit incorporates more than one pestcontrol feature (such as ant baiting area and a glueboard area), it maybe desirable to attract a certain species of pest into all chambers oronly one chamber and not others. For instance, if one wishes to monitora pest population infesting stored products such as dry pet foods, anappropriate pest pheromone must be placed directly over or on aglueboard. Otherwise, few if any pheromonally—attracted pests may becomestuck to the glueboard thereby suggesting that the infestation is light.That is, the pests will be attracted to the exact area where thepheromone is located and avoid being caught in the glueboard.

Ideal Harborage Factors

All pests have particular requirements for an ideal harborage site whichcan be incorporated into pest control system equipment design. Suchaspects can be included into the designs of dedicated “false harborage”components or supplemental attractant features of other dedicatedcomponents. Indeed, appreciation of a combination of factors is criticalto replicating a good harborage for a particular pest. Included amongthe factors that add to the attractiveness of a site as a harborageinclude adequate moisture, shelter from excess water and proper voidsize.

Adequate Moisture: Adequate moisture is one of the most importantfactors for providing a good harborage for ants and many other speciesof pests. It is imperative for most pests, however, that the moistureonly manifest itself as high humidity and not as actual standing orpooling water. In warm environments, the combination of water and heatin a harborage creates a “sauna effect” ideal for many pests such asants. Designing equipment with a small area for water to pool or collectand then evaporate with heat will increase the humidity andattractiveness of an equipment design. Equipment designed to be placednear a water source such as a downspout is another way to make equipmentmore attractive since pests frequently nest under or near downspouts.

Shelter From Excess Water: Protection from excess rain, sprinklers ordownspouts is critical to an ideal harborage or station design becausethe nest might be washed away and destroyed. Most pests seem to sensethe ability of a potential harborage to keep excess water out and areattracted to those which suitably shield the pest from excess water.

Proper Void Size: Suitably sized openings, voids, or cavities in aprotected area are critical to attracting certain pest species. Forexample, thigmotrophic pests need to feel their backs touch the interiorsurface of a structural void in order to find the void attractive as aharborage. Other pests prefer to excavate out a shallow amount of dirtunder a flat surface to make room for a nest. Equipment can be designedto incorporate the desired void size(s) and/or configuration(s) attractone or more species of pest(s).

Termite Biology Factors

Termites have a variety of biological factors which can affect pestcontrol equipment design. Some factors can be incorporated in order tomake a station more attractive and therefore easier for termites tofind. Other factors can affect, for example, how a termite monitoringmaterial can best be inspected without disturbing the termites andhaving them vacate the monitoring station which might otherwise distortthe monitoring process. These two categories, factors affecting theattractiveness of a termite control device, and termites' desire toremain in a control device are discussed below:

Factors Affecting the Attractiveness of a Termite Control Device

Trackways: When subterranean termite species create foraging tunnels andencounter structures which present trackways, the termite tend to followsuch structures. This behavior can be exploited in the design of termitecontrol equipment by attaching rods or similar elongate members to theside or bottom of a termite station which preferably radiate out fromthe station in all directions. Such structure would tend to attracttermites from a distance to the station.

Water: Water or high moisture can be sensed by termites from limiteddistances. Incorporating water chambers or cavities into the design of atermite station can add to the station's attractiveness. Waterreceptacles can be made to be refilled with each service or designed tonaturally trap rain and/or sprinkler water. Stations can also bedesigned to attract water to the general area to increase groundmoisture around the trap. Designs are also contemplated to render pestcontrol stations more readily installable near downspouts where the soilmoisture is higher but which also keep excess surface water out of thestations.

Food/Tunneling Materials/Inserts: Termites are attracted to insulativeand nutritive materials as habitats. As such, termites generally prefertunneling through soft wood and other substantially rigid, yetrelatively soft materials. With this in mind, termite control equipmentmay be designed to effectively incorporate one of both of soft woods andother such termite attractant materials. Rigid foam materials such asstyrofoam and the like are attractive to termites as insulative habitatsand therefore are useful as termite attractants. However, they are notactual food sources and may be used in conjunction with natural woodproducts to produce a composite product which is especially attractiveto termites. Moisture can be used as an added attractant by allowing awood attractant to contact the soil thereby absorbing water from theground. Additional blocks of wood or rigid foam can also be provided andprevented from touching the soil in order to limit the overall rate andextent of wood rot and render the moistened block more attractive withgreater termite activity. The moisture content of foam materials may beenhanced by including preformed holes or receptacles into the foam thatcan be refilled or capture ground water whereby water would function asan added attractant to the foam, particularly in dry climates.

Ground Shadows: Subterranean termites are attracted to so-called“shadows” of large surface area objects on the ground surface. Suchobjects (such as a large rock on the ground) can be perceived as both anatural protector from rain water and a natural humidity chamber wheremoderate levels of ground water may condense. This can be exploited froma pest control system equipment design perspective by making a termitemonitoring/control devices that are large and flat and adopted forplacement on the ground surface. Ports may also be provided inside thestation that can be filled from above with water and gradually releasethe water into the ground below the station to draw pests to thestation.

Ground Level Foraging: Some species of subterranean termites may preferto forage close to the ground level (i.e., at the top 0-6 inches ofsoil). This behavior can be exploited by equipment that has access portsrelatively close to the ground level but not so close to allow surfacewater from running into the station. Additionally, a trackway such as along tube or rod attached to the station may be inserted down into theground to lead the termites into the bottom of a station.

Factors Affecting Termites' Desire to Remain in a Control Device

If subterranean termites are disturbed after they enter a monitoringstation, they may leave the food/tunneling source and not return therebycompromising the accuracy of the monitoring test. Many factors can detertermites from continuing to feed and tunnel in a given monitor orbait/toxicant source. Many of these factors can be lessened by properequipment design as discussed below.

One of the primary problems that can sufficiently disturb termites tocause them to leave a monitoring site is the removal of thefeeding/tunneling source for routine inspections. With this in mind,equipment can be designed that makes the feeding/tunneling source easierto inspect while minimizing disturbance of the station. According to theinvention, some methods to ease inspection include the following:

Multiple Blocks of Food/Tunneling Sources: Two or more blocks of woodand/or foam can be placed inside a station. If placed vertically intothe ground, the blocks are separable from one another and placed uprightend-to-end. In subterranean stations, the bottom block may be allowed toproject through the station and contact the soil. This increases thewood moisture of the bottom block. The increased wood moisture of thebottom block will increase the amount of termite activity therein.Therefore, the top block can be removed for closer inspection withoutdisturbing the primary termite activity in the bottom block. Suchmultiple block method also creates an ideal void between the blockswhich termites will naturally tube over with mud tunnels in order tomaintain constant moisture levels between the blocks. This void iseasily inspected when removing the top block.

Similarly, an above-ground, horizontal station design may incorporatetwo or more blocks of food or tunneling material to provide laidside-by-side or one on top of the other such that at least one blockcontacts the soil. The space between the blocks as well as all exteriorsurfaces of each block may be easily inspected without significantlydisturbing the other block.

Additionally, predrilling or preforming hole(s) into wood or foam,whether the monitors are disposed vertically or horizontally willincrease the total outer surface area for termites to forage and tubeover. And, when termites tunnel or tube inside the wood or foam, it isimpossible to detect from a visual inspection of the exterior surfaces.The more surface area of the wood that can be exposed, therefore, thegreater the number of exterior surfaces upon which termites can tubewith mud tunnels for easy visual detection. Accordingly, holespreferably extending from the top to the bottom of any wood or foammaterial which can be tubed over are also desirable.

Slots, notches, grooves and the like may also be provided in the sidesof vertical or horizontal food/tunneling materials to enhance tubing onthe outside surfaces of such materials. Slots that are approximately ⅛inch to ½ inch in width and depth, provide ideal termite tubingsurfaces. Such slots are relatively easy for termites to tube up becausethe slot can be completely covered with less energy and mud. Thisaccelerates the development of tubes on the outside of a surface andreduces and may eliminate the need to remove the material forinspections. Similar formations may also be included on any preformed orpredrilled holes provided in the food/tunneling materials. Providingslots on the block periphery and/or on any preformed or predrilled holesmay significantly increase the total surface area for tubing andinspectability.

Termites may also be “out-competed” for a particular food/shelter sourceby other pests such as ants and slugs. The present inventioncontemplates pest control equipment which avoids this situation byinterfacing or incorporating above ground and/or below groundtermite-specific components with general or specific insectbaiting/toxicant housing components to prevent the non-termite pestsfrom invading the termite components.

Rodent Biology Factors

Rodents such as mice, voles, rats, and moles all have behaviors that arepredictable. These behavioral patterns can be exploited by incorporationof rodent-attractive features into pest control equipment design.Behaviors of mice that may be capitalized upon by use of the pestcontrol system of the present invention include the following:

Edge-of-Wall Effect: Most rodents, like many other crawling pestsdiscussed above, like to travel close to the base of a wall or othersubstantially vertical surface for protection and guidance. As anadditional protective measure, they especially prefer narrow passagewaysnext to walls. Accordingly, equipment can be designed that “funnels”rodents from the edge of a wall into a rodent control station. Apassageway can also be designed into rodent control equipment whichcreates a dark runway for rodents to traverse before entering the actualtrap area.

Hole Exploration: Many types of rodents have a curious nature withrespect to unexplored holes. Holes represent potential nesting areas andfood. Designing equipment with the proper size opening is important asis the provision of a dark hole that creates a mysterious appeal to lurethe curious rodent inside.

Acquired Avoidance Response to Glueboards: Rodents can develop learnedbehavior toward glueboards and other tacky surfaces which enables themto identify and avoid such materials. They can also escape from tackysurfaces if not sufficiently trapped thereon. The best circumstancesunder which to trap rodents with glueboards is when they are in a hurryand do not carefully investigate their surroundings prior to undertakinga certain course of action. Rodent behavioral and/or physiologicalfactors to be considered in the design of an effective rodent glueboardmonitoring/trapping station include the following:

Guard Hairs Touching Glue Surfaces: If a rodent approaches a glueboardwhile casually exploring an area, it will stop and investigate aglueboard surface. The rodent will reach its front foot over theglueboard. The lower guard hairs on the undersides of the rodent's footwill be pulled when they touch the glue surface. This will alert therodent not to proceed onto the surface. If, however, a rodent can beforced to be committed to enter into an opening without the benefit offirst feeling the top of the surface, trap catches on the glueboards canbe increased. According to a presently preferred embodiment, therefore,the modular pest control system according to the invention, includes a“launch pad” on the outside of the entranceway of the glueboardcomponent. The launch pad is specifically designed to be too high andtoo far away from the glue surface for the rodent to touch or test theglueboard surface with the guard hairs on undersides of its legs. Thatis, the rodent must decide to take the risk and jump down into theopening to further investigate which traps the rodent on the glueboard.

Self-Extraction from Glue Surfaces: Rodents can frequently pullthemselves off of most glue surfaces, particularly when only one tothree legs are trapped. Recognizing this, the present inventioncontemplates a rodent control device that reliably traps all four legsat once. For instance, equipment can be designed to make the surfacesaround the glue surface too slick or smooth for a rodent to use forleverage for pulling itself off of the glue surface.

Response to Snap Traps: It is a common knowledge that snap traps workwhen rodents try to steal food from the trigger thereby setting off thedead fall arm. However, a rodent can also be trapped while trying tosteal nesting materials (e.g., cotton, foam, or the like) or when theymerely accidentally contact the trigger.

Rodents can escape the dead fall arm of a snap trap if the trigger isnot sensitive enough or if the spring is too light and does not trap therodent efficiently. Rodent control equipment can thus be designed tohouse snap traps and increase their success by building an effectivetrigger into the station design for better securing methods with thefood or nesting materials.

Rodents can also be trapped in a snap trap if they are in a hurry andrun into or onto a trap trigger. The present invention proposes rodentequipment designs that encourage rodents to jump through an opening andland on the trigger in a manner similar to the launch pad describedabove.

Hoarding Bait: Rodents are known to hoard food if they find a freshsource. This can be a problem with rodenticidal baits because the baitcan be carried away by a rodent and dropped onto a surface such as arestaurant food preparation table and the like, thereby contaminatingthe surface. The present invention includes rodent control equipmentdesigns that can prevent hoarding by either securing the bait inside anenclosed area or with a wire so that the rodent can only eat what isavailable at the station and cannot carry off larger pieces.

Flea Biology Factors

Fleas are attracted, particularly from their pupae form onward, by heat,carbon dioxide, light or any combination thereof. Equipment cantherefore be designed to include any or all of these attractants formonitoring and/or low-level control of fleas. Because of their lifecycle, Insect Growth Regulators or IGRs can be used to interrupt thecycle and prevent future offspring or inhibit development through one ormore stages. These IGRs are volatile and can be dissipated with air flowover a compartment with a station. Adult fleas move by jumping, notcrawling. Therefore, equipment designed to trap fleas that are attractedinside an enclosed space should have a large opening to allow easyaccess to the glue surface or bait/toxicant. If the top of thecompartment with the glue needs to be covered, it can be coveredpartially with a tunneled lid that causes fleas to slide down the funneland onto a tacky glue surface which may also include a bait and/ortoxicant substance.

Ant Feeding Behaviors

Ants are interdependent social insects which have diverse dietaryrequirements. Many ant species typically require protein, sugars, otherinsects, plants, honeydew (from aphids) and oils on a regular yetvariable basis. The foraging ants of a colony are instructed throughchemical cues as to the type of food source the colony needs at anyparticular time. These needs may change daily, hourly or even morefrequently depending on the species, time of year, availability of foodsources, etc. Because of their seeming randomness, these changingdietary needs are currently impossible to predict with reliability byeven the most sophisticated scientific techniques. However, to increasethe likelihood of ant attraction, equipment can be designed to house asmany different known ant food sources in as many physical consistenciesas possible. In addition, equipment can be designed to attach to plantsand trees to take advantage of the plants as additional food sources.Equipment may also be designed to attract and trap other insects andpests which can also provide an additional food source for ants in thatthey may feed on the dead pests.

With the foregoing considerations in mind, the reader's attention isdirected to FIG. 1 which reveals a first aspect of a modular pestcontrol system constructed in accordance with the present invention.

The modular pest control system is identified generally by referencenumeral 10 and includes a first component 12, a second component 14 andresilient means 16 for releasably connecting the first and secondcomponents. In accordance with this particular embodiment, firstcomponent 12 is a pest control device and second component 14 serves asmeans for securing the first component to an object.

Within the context of the present invention, the “objects” to which thefirst component 12 may be secured may include, without limitation,interior and exterior building surfaces and materials, poles, pipes,cables, trees and other vegetation, and targeted areas of soil. Asembodied in FIG. 1, first component 12 is a ground crawling pest controldevice. A “ground crawling pest” shall be construed to include groundcrawling insects and similar creatures including, without limitation,ants, cockroaches, crickets, ground beetles, earwigs, ladybugs, fleas(although adult fleas move by jumping rather than crawling or walking),spiders, centipedes, millipedes, slugs, and flying insects which mayland and crawl or walk into a ground crawling pest control device suchas first component 12. A ground crawling pest within the presentcontext, however, shall not include termites or rodents.

Furthermore, the act of “controlling” any pest referred to herein shallinclude any one or more of attracting, repelling, monitoring, trappingand killing of the pest. Similarly, “pest control means” or “pestcontrol material”, as used herein, may include any device or materialfor effectuating the desired pest control. Such means and materials mayinclude, without limitation, snap traps for trapping and/or killingrodents, tacky-surfaced glue boards for trapping rodents or groundcrawling pests, water and edible toxicants for any pest discussedherein, nutritive and/or insulative shelter material for termites,pheromones and related scent-based pest attractants, carbon dioxide forattracting termites and fleas, and light sources for attracting fleas.

Additionally, according to several additional embodiments of the presentmodular pest control system described hereinafter, first component 12may comprise a pest control device capable of controlling at least onespecies of ground crawling pest, termite and/or rodent, and secondcomponent 14 may be another pest control device, e.g., a subterraneantermite tube.

As embodied in FIG. 1, second component 14 is a soil anchor 18 forsecuring the first component 12 to the earth and resilient means 16comprises at least one or, more preferably, two or more spring clips 20.Each spring clip comprises a flexible member terminating in a lip 22which is configured to engage with cooperating structure to releasablyconnect the first and second components 12, 14. The spring clips 20 maybe separate from the first and/or second components 12, 14 but arepreferably carried thereby so as to prevent misplacement of the clips.More preferably, the spring clips are formed integrally with the firstor second components 12, 14, which components are preferably fabricatedfrom high-impact, UV-inhibited polypropylene or similar high strengthmoldable plastic material. As illustrated, spring clips 20 arepreferably upwardly directed resilient members which are carried by thesecond component 14 and whose lips 22 releasably engage with cooperatingstructure in the form of mating recesses 24 carried by the firstcomponent 12 which are adapted for receiving the lips 22. It will beunderstood, however, that the relative positions of one or more of thespring clip(s) 20 and recess(es) 24 may be reversed, i.e., at least onespring clip 20 may be carried by the first component 12 and at least onecorresponding recess 24 may be carried by the second component 14.

Soil anchor 18 comprises a spike member 26 having a longitudinal axis“A”, a first end 28 which functions as a soil penetration tip and asecond end 30 which functions as a support for an undersurface for thefirst component 12. Soil anchor 18 further comprises one or more meansfor enhancing retention of the spike member 26 in soil. Preferably, thesoil retention enhancing means may comprise at least one or, moredesirably, a plurality of radial vanes 32 extending between the firstand second ends 28, 30. Although not necessary, it is preferred that thevane(s) 32 taper from the second end 30 to first end 28 of spike member26. The soil retention enhancing means further preferably comprise atleast one barb 34 provided along the outer edge of at least one of theradial vanes 32. Additionally, at least one of the barbs 34 furtherpreferably includes a projection 36 extending generally coincident withthe barb and protruding laterally with respect to its associated vane 32to further enhance retention of the spike member 26 in soil. Otheroptional and preferable soil retention means may include at least oneaperture 38 provided in one or more of the vanes 32.

Referring to FIG. 2, wherein like or similar reference numeralsdesignate like or similar elements, as is true throughout the remainingviews, there is shown another soil anchor 18 a which is suitable for useas a second component for securing a first component such as the pestcontrol device 12, or other pest control devices described hereinafter,to soil. Soil anchor 18 a is preferably fabricated from the same orsimilar materials as soil anchor 18 of FIG. 1. Likewise, soil anchor 18a preferably includes spring clips 20 and some or, more preferably, allof the soil retention enhancement means described above in respect toFIG. 1. For brevity of description and clarity of illustration,therefore, only those elements of soil anchor 18 a which are not presentin soil anchor 18, which are not readily visible in FIG. 1 or which areotherwise necessary for a proper understanding of the present invention,will be described in detail and identified by reference numerals in FIG.2. A similar approach will also be taken in the description andillustration of other drawing figures herein which contain common and atleast once disclosed subject matter.

The second or upper end of soil anchor 18 a (and soil anchor 18)preferably includes a support plate 40 disposed in a plane extendingsubstantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis A (FIG. 1) andadapted for contacting the undersurface of a pest control device such asfirst component 12 of FIG. 1. Support plate 40 may assume anycurvilinear and/or rectilinear shape, e.g., circular as shown in FIG. 2,that is suitable for providing stable support of the first pest controldevice component of the modular pest control system of the presentinvention.

According to presently preferred embodiments of the modular pest controlsystem according to the invention, means are provided for establishing agap between the undersurface of a first pest control device componentand a second component such as soil anchors 18 or 18 a to permit waterdrainage therebetween and, possibly, provide a harborage for pests.Although the gap establishing means may be provided on the undersurfaceof the first component, presently preferred designs contemplateprovision of such means atop the second or upper end of the soil anchors18 or 18 a. More particularly, suitable gap establishing means compriseat least one raised formation 42 provided on the upper surface ofsupport plate 40. To provide effective water drainage and maintain a lowprofile of first component 12, the raised formation(s) 42 should be lessthan about {fraction (1/10)} inch and preferably less than about{fraction (1/20)} inch in height.

Soil anchor 18 a is designed for anchorage in somewhat softer soils thansoil anchor 18. As such, it should be more elongated for deeperpenetration into the soil and desirably includes, adjacent its lower orpenetration end, a pair of laterally projecting pivot pins 44 (only oneof which is shown in FIG. 2) for pivotally supporting an optional,generally duck bill shaped toggle member 46 shown in FIGS. 3 through 6.

Although not always necessary, there may be times when the soil is soloose that toggle member 46 is useful for proper anchorage of the firstcomponent. Toggle member 46 is preferably semiconic including an arcuatewall 48 bounded by a pair of wings 50 which include openings 52 forreceiving pivot pins 44 of soil anchor 18 a in the manner illustrated inFIG. 6. Toggle member 46 may be fabricated from any suitablesubstantially rigid metallic or plastic material.

To install a modular pest control system according to the presentinvention in soil, therefore, a user selects an appropriate first pestcontrol device component 12 and second soil anchor component 18 or 18 a.If toggle member 46 is also necessary, it must be first attached to thepivot pins 44 of soil anchor 18 a. Then the user may connect the firstand second components 12, 14 by overcoming the spring force of resilientmeans 16 until the lips 22 of the spring clips 20 snap into engagementwith recesses 24. The first and second components may then be manuallypressed or gently pounded as a unit into the soil until the second endof the spike member is substantially flush with the ground surface (or,if present, the undersurface or the support plate 40 is in substantialcontact with the ground surface). Alternatively, the appropriate soilanchor 18 or 18 a go may be inserted into the soil to the desired depthand the first pest control component may be attached thereto in themanner described above. Thereafter, the system may remain effectivelyembedded in the soil throughout the intended service life of the pestcontrol device.

In the event the modular pest control system according to the inventionis to be anchored in especially hard soil, a punch tool 54 constructedsubstantially as illustrated in FIG. 7 may be used to initially piercethe soil to facilitate subsequent insertion of a vaned soil anchor suchas anchor 18. Punch tool 54 is preferably formed substantially entirelyof a hard and rugged plastic or metal material. For greatestpenetrability results and service life punch tool is desirably formedfrom steel. The punch tool includes an elongate bar 56 having alongitudinal axis “B” and first and second ends 58 and 60, respectively.First end 58 functions as a soil penetration tip and second end 60functions as a striking surface for an unillustrated striking tool suchas a hammer or the like which is used to drive the punch tool 54 intothe hard soil.

The punch tool 54 also preferably includes means 62 for limitingpenetration of the tool into soil. Suitable means 62 may include a plateextending substantially perpendicular to bar 56. Alternatively, means 62may, as illustrated, assume the form of an annular ring affixed to theupper end(s) of one or more vanes 64. Vanes 64 are preferablysubstantially parallel to longitudinal axis B of bar 56 and projectradially therefrom adjacent first end 58. The vanes 64 should correspondin number, angular disposition and general configuration to the vanes,e.g., vanes 32, provided on the vaned soil anchor such as anchor 18.Following pounding of the punch tool into the soil and removaltherefrom, the selected soil anchor may be inserted by pressing or lighttapping of the anchor into the hole left by the punch tool.

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of a gap or void 66 which commonly formswhen soil 68 dries, contracts and separates from the foundation of abuilding 70. It may oftentimes be necessary to place a modular pestcontrol system according to the invention closely adjacent the building70 under such dry soil conditions. Consequently, the present inventioncontemplates a soil anchor shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 which is particularlysuited for such purposes.

As seen in those figures, the soil anchor, identified by referencenumeral 18 b, includes a spike number 26 including resilient means 16 atthe second or upper end thereof adapted for releasable connection to anunillustrated first pest control device component. The spike member 26includes a plurality, preferably three, barbed vanes 32 desirablyincorporating at least some of the additional soil retention enhancementmeans discussed above as well as a support plate 40 including drainagegap establishment means 42.

As is most clearly shown in FIG. 10, the spike member 26 is not centeredunder the overlying support plate 40 and has no rearwardly projectingvane. Hence, the soil anchor 18 b may be inserted into the gap 66 suchthat the rear face of the spike member 26 essentially abuts the face ofthe building 70. This enables firm anchorage of the modular pest controlsystem in the soil gap 66 while keeping the unillustrated first pestcontrol component closer to the building, which enables effectiveexploitation of the “edge-of-wall” effect discussed hereinabove.

FIGS. 11 and 12 reveal another presently preferred embodiment of asecond component 14 suitable for securing the first component 12 of themodular pest control system 10 of the present invention to an object.According to this embodiment, the object may include, withoutlimitation, any substantially vertical interior or exterior buildingsurface or material, pole, tree trunk or other large and sturdyvegetation. Accordingly, second component 14 is desirably formed as arigid, angled metal plastic bracket 72 including a first componentsupport plate 40 integrally connected to a mounting plate 74. Supportplate 40 preferably includes resilient means 16 and drainage gapexpansion means 42 for the reasons discussed herein above. Mountingplate 74 preferably includes a plurality of through-bores 76, slots 78or other similar openings to permit passage therethrough of suitableunillustrated fasteners such as screws, nails or the like for securingthe bracket 72 to an object. The rear face of the mounting plate mayalso be fitted with double-sided pressure adhesive tape or even suctioncups (not shown) to enable ready mounting of the bracket to especiallysmooth walls or panes of glass. Mounting of the bracket 72 on trees andsimilar vegetation is often advantageous in that may place the firstpest control component close to flowers, fruits or other vegetablematter that may be highly attractive to certain species of pests.

FIGS. 13 through 16 reveal a presently preferred construction of a baseportion or simply, “base” 80 of a ground crawling pest control devicesuitable for use as the first component 12 of the modular pest controlsystem 10 of FIG. 1 or other embodiments of such system describedhereinafter.

Base 80 preferably includes the aforementioned recesses 24 (FIGS. 13, 14and 15) for matingly receiving the lips 22 of resilient spring clips 20(FIG. 1). In addition, as perhaps best appreciated by reference to FIG.21, base 80 is preferably releasably connectable to a cover portion or,simply, “cover” 82 of the ground crawling pest device through resilientmeans 84. Resilient means 84, similar to resilient means 16 describedabove, may include one or more spring clips 86 which are preferablyfixedly attached to one or both of the base 80 and cover 82 and whichtermination in lips 88 which are adapted to engage with correspondingrecess(es) 90 provided one or both of the base 80 and cover 82.

According to a presently preferred construction, resilient clip means 84comprises two or more upwardly directed resilient spring clip members 86which are carried by base 80 (FIGS. 13, 14, 16 and 21) whose lips 88releasably engage with mating recesses 90 carried by the cover 82 (FIGS.17, 18, 20 and 21).

As discussed hereinabove, ants have variable dietary needs which maychange daily, hourly or even more frequently depending, withoutlimitation, on the species, time of year, availability of food sources,and the like. In addition to or perhaps concomitant with theirnutritional needs, ants have also shown tendencies for consumption offoods of various physical consistencies ranging from solid or granularto semisolid to viscous liquids or syrups. This phenomenon may also be acharacteristic of other species of ground crawling pests. Recognizingthis, the base 80 preferably incorporates at least two or more areas ofdistinct constructions particularly adapted for accommodating differentpest control materials (typically toxic baits) of differing physicalconsistencies.

More specifically, base 80 preferably comprises at least a first area92, typically the area of greatest volume, defining a first constructionfor receiving a quantity of solid or granular material 94 (FIG. 13). Asshown in FIGS. 14, 15 and 16, first area 92 is preferably formed as anannular chamber having a porous floor. The porous floor may be createdby a plurality of holes 96 disposed about the floor of the area orchamber 92. A porous floor is essential for storing granular baitmaterials because standing water in chamber 92 would quickly result inwaterlogging and decay of the material.

Existing molding techniques, however, do not consistently and reliablyproduce openings of a small enough size to retain granular materialwithin the chamber 92 yet permit proper water drainage therethrough.Consequently, openings 96 should have individual and collective areassufficient to permit unrestricted passage of water. However, when madeof this size, which is readily obtainable by conventional moldingprocesses, holes 96 are usually larger than the grains of bait materialto be retained in chamber 92. To prevent loss of granular bait material,therefore, the ground crawling first pest control component according tothe present invention further preferably includes a removable annularscreen 98 (FIGS. 1 and 21) made of metal or plastic and adapted to lieon the floor of the chamber 92 beneath granular bait material. Thescreen 98 should have openings sufficient to permit passage of water andresist passage of the granular pest control material 94. Alternatively,the granular pest control material 94 may also be prepackaged in ascreened bag or similar container which can be placed in chamber 92.

Base 90 is further preferably provided with at least one additional areahaving at least one additional construction substantially different fromthe porous-floored first construction of chamber 92. The at least oneadditional area is adapted for receiving a quantity of at least oneadditional pest control material having at least one physicalconsistency substantially different from the granular material 94 whichis adapted for storage within chamber 92. Hence, because both semisolidand liquid materials have been observed to function well at certaintimes as ant attractants (and one or the other may also serve asattractants for other ground crawling pests), base 90 also preferablycomprises designated areas structurally adapted for receiving semisolidand liquid, typically viscous liquid, pest control materials.

The first of these additional areas has a construction adapted toreceive semisolid pest control materials including, but not limited to,tacky pastes, gels, caulks and other materials that generally have ahigh water content but retain their shape and resist running, even ifapplied on vertical surfaces or on the undersides of any “ceilingsurfaces” of a pest control device. This first additional area may be acontinuous or discontinuous annular support surface or ledge 100preferably formed at least one or both of the inner and outer redialperipheries of first chamber 92 at a predetermined height from the floorof the first chamber. Support surface 100 is adapted to receive aquantity of at least one semisolid bait, identified by reference numeral102 in FIG. 13, which is physically separate from the first chamber 92yet still accessible to most ground crawling pests including ants.

The second additional area, reference numeral 104 has an additionalconstruction different from both the first, open-bottom chamber 92 andsupport surface 100. The second additional area 104 is preferably formedas a closed-bottom chamber adapted for receiving a quantity of liquidpest control material 106 (FIG. 13). Such materials may include thinliquid materials such as baited or unbaited water to comparativelyviscous water-, syrup- or jelly-based liquid baits. If desired, theupper edge of chamber 104 may be provided with one or more small notchesor similar openings 108 of a size sufficient to permit ingress into thechamber 104 by ants to the substantial exclusion of other groundcrawling pests. For compactness, the first area 92, the first additionalarea 100 and the second additional area 104 are preferablyconcentrically disposed with respect to one another.

Additionally, although not illustrated, at least one of the first area92, the first additional area 100 and the second additional area 104 maycomprise a plurality of discrete zones. For example, screen 98 may havetwo or more upstanding dividers which separate chamber 92 into at leasttwo zones. In this way, any of the first area 92 and the first andsecond additional areas 100, 104 may receive a plurality of granular,semisolid and liquid pest control materials, respectively. Among theadvantages provided thereby include the ability to separate baits ofsimilar physical consistency which may be incompatible with one anotheror are tailored for different species of ground crawling pest, and theability to perform product evaluation. For instance, granular ant baitsmay be contaminated by slug baits and can be isolated therefrom bysuitable dividers provided in the first chamber. And, several differentcompetitive brands of granular, semisolid and/or liquid baits may beplaced in the same pest control device to determine which brands aresubject to the greatest consumption and, therefore, most favored by thetargeted species of ground crawling pest.

The outer circumferential wall 110 of first chamber 92 is discontinuousto define at least one pest access opening 112. The pest accessopening(s) 112 are elevated with respect to the floor of the firstchamber a distance sufficient to enable an ample volume of granularmaterial to be placed in the chamber. Base 80 further preferablycomprises at least one entrance ramp 114 (FIG. 14) provided on the uppersurface of the base which begins at the outer peripheral edge 116 of thebase and terminates at least one pest access opening 112. The entranceramps 114 are preferably upwardly inclined from the outer peripheraledge 116 of base 80 to pest access openings 112 at an angle of betweenabout 50° to about 30° from horizontal.

Although ramps 114 may have generally non-descript travel surfaces, itis desirable that the ramps include means for attracting at least onespecies of ground crawling pest. Such pest attracting means may includemeans for attracting ants and other pests. For example the ramps 114 maycomprise at least one grove 118 of a size and shape, including suitablewidth and height, to attract and accommodate ants to the substantialexclusion of other ground crawling pests. At the mouth of each groove118, the height of the outer peripheral edge 116 of base 80 ispreferably less than about {fraction (1/16)} inch. Since a verticalsurface greater than about {fraction (1/16)} inch in height appears as awall to ants, by making the mouth of the grooves 118 less than about{fraction (1/16)} inch high, ants will be encouraged to enter thegrooves rather than foraging around the base 80 and avoiding entry intothe pest control device.

As depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, the pest attracting means of ramps 114further preferably comprise at least one juncture including asubstantially vertical wall surface 120 contiguous with a floor surface122 extending substantially laterally with respect to the wall surface112. Such junctures enable ground crawling pests to contact the surfaces120 and 122 as they traverse a ramp 114 to effectively exploit theedge-of-wall effect discussed hereinabove. To encourage entry of groundcrawling pests other than ants onto the ramps 114, the outer peripheraledge 116 at the juncture of surfaces 120 and 122 preferably has a heightof greater than about {fraction (1/16)} inch. Indeed, other than at themouths of grooves 118, the outer peripheral edge 116 of base 80 ispreferably greater than about {fraction (1/16)} inch in height toencourage all species of ground crawling pests to follow the outerperipheral edge and thereby encounter and enter at least one entranceramp 114.

Furthermore, as most clearly depicted in FIG. 14, the outer peripheraledge preferably has a least one straight portion 124 to promotesubstantial abutting contact of the pest control device, including base80, with a substantially linear wall at a structure in need of insectcontrol, e.g., building 70 of FIGS. 8 and 10. This feature exploits theedge-of-wall effect in that a ground crawling pest traveling along thebase of a wall with which the straight portion 124 of base 80 is inabutting contact will encounter the base and likely enter, or at leastinvestigate, the pest control device.

An additional advantage arising from the provision of upwardly slopingramps 114 and other raised floor surfaces of base 80 is that harboragesmay be created which may be attractive to certain species of groundcrawling pests. For example, these harborages may include first voidspaces 126 (FIGS. 15 and 16) formed beneath the ramps 114 and otherouter regions of the base 80 contiguous with the ramps. The first voidspaces 126 may range from about {fraction (1/32)}″ to about ¾″ in depthand are useful in attracting a variety of ground crawling pestsincluding large pests such as slugs, crickets and the like to smallerthigmotrophic pests such as some ants, earwigs, cockroaches and thelike.

An additional preformed harborage is a substantially vertical andannular second void space 128 that may be provided between the adjacentinner and outer walls of the first area 92 and the second additionalarea 104, respectively, and underlying the first additional area 100.Second void space 128 creates a void for ants and other pests whichserves as protection from excess surface water but which provides ahumid environment conducive to egg and larval development.

As seen in FIGS. 14, 15, 16 and 21 base 80 may also include socket means130 for matingly receiving pins or similar projections 132 (see alsoFIGS. 19 and 20) provided on the undersurface of cover 92 to facilitatealignment and connection of base 80 and cover 82. Additionally, FIGS. 1and 15 reveal that base 80 further preferably includes cam means 134 orsimilar inclined surfaces for urging flexure of the at least one springclip 20 of resilient means 16 to facilitate connecting of the first andsecond components 12, 14.

FIGS. 17 through 21 represent a presently preferred construction of acover 82 suitable for use in a ground crawling pest control deviceaccording to the instant invention. Similar to base 80, the outerperipheral edge of cover 82 is preferably constructed with a straightportion 138. Straight portion 138 is adapted to vertically align withand not overhang the straight portion 124 of base 80 such that theassembled base and cover may be brought into substantial abuttingcontact with the structure in need of crawling insect protection.

The upper surface of cover 82 may include one or more areas 140 adaptedfor receiving indicia-bearing stickers or the like. Alternatively, areas140 can be molded, stamped or otherwise formed to display desiredindicia such as advertisements, product information, and the like. Cover82 may also include a preformed socket 142 for receiving the lower endof a flag, standard or the like for preventing loss of the pest controldevice when buried in mulch, wood chips, stones or other landscapingmaterials. FIGS. 18 through 21 show that cover 82 further preferablyincludes cam means 144 or similar inclined surfaces for urging flexureof the at least one spring clip 86 carried by base 80.

The undersurface of cover 82 is preferably provided with one or moredownwardly projecting alignment means 146 which preferably closelyinterengage with either the inner or, as illustrated, the outercircumferential surface of the outer peripheral wall of the first area92 of base 80 to further promote precise alignment during connection ofthe cover 82 with base 80. Further, to exploit the ridge effectdiscussed hereinabove, the undersurface of cover 82 is preferablyprovided with one or more ridge means 148 for directing ants and certainother ground crawling pests from the outer peripheral edge 136 of thecover to a location overlying at least one predetermined area of base 80containing a desired pest control material. For example, ridge means maybe useful in directing ants or other small ground crawling pests fromthe outer peripheral edge 136 to a region overlying the secondadditional area 104 of base 80. For best results, ridge means 148 ispreferably less than about {fraction (1/16)} inch or, more preferably,less than about {fraction (1/32)} inch in height. To ensure that onlypests of a predetermined size may enter the second additional area 104,the undersurface of cover 82 maybe provided with a downwardly dependingring or similar structure 150 which can be selected to protrude apredetermined distance from the bottom of the cover 82.

To reduce ingress of excess rain, sprinkler, downspout or other surfacewater, the cover 82, except in the region of the vertically coalignedstraight portions 124, 138 of the base 80 and cover 82, is preferablydimensioned to overhang the base 80 in the manner shown in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIGS. 17, 18, and 20, the upper surface of the cover 82 isdesirably provided with means 152 for resisting tampering with the atleast one resilient member or spring clip 86 of base 80 when the springclip(s) 86 are engaged with the recess(es) 90 of cover 82. According toa presently preferred embodiment, the tamper resistant means preferablycomprise least one raised formation means for inhibiting access to thelip(s) 88 of spring clip(s) 86 by human fingers.

It is preferable that, when the base 80 and cover 82 are connected toone another, the lips 88 of spring clips 86 are matingly and relativelytightly received in recesses 90. To facilitate detachment of the cover82 from the base 80, therefore, the present invention further preferablycomprises a release tool 154 (FIG. 21) having inclined surfaces 156 forurging simultaneous disengagement of the lips 88 of spring clips 86 fromthe recesses 90 of cover 82. In using the release tool 154, the useraligns the tool with the spring clips 86, presses down on the tool andlifts the cover 82. In so doing, the upper ends of the spring clips 86are urged outwardly along inclined surfaces 156 of tool 154 to disengagethe lips of 88 from recesses 90. Additionally, depending on the spacingand orientation of the spring clips 20 carried by any of the secondcomponents 14 of the modular pest control system of the presentinvention, the same or similar release tool may also to be used toseparate the first component 12 from the second component 14.

FIGS. 22 through 24 collectively depict an exemplary, although notlimitative, embodiment of a removable, closed-bottom receptacle means158 for receiving a quantity of a pest control material and configuredfor substantial mating placement within the first area 92 of base 80.Receptacle means 158 preferably comprises an annular cup or pan typemember 160 having an annular bottom or floor 162 bounded by inner andouter side walls 164, 166. The annular cup may be open at its top asillustrated and used by itself to hold any desired volume of granular,semisolid or liquid pest control material. However, to minimize thepotential for spillage of the pest control materials contained therein,the open top of cup 160 is preferably enclosed by a disk 168 which mayhave one or more openings 170 of predetermined size to permit ingress ofground crawling pests of certain sizes into the cup while limitingevaporation of the pest control material and increasing childresistance. Alternatively, the inner and/or outer side walls 164, 166 ofcup 160 may have openings of predetermined size in lieu of or inaddition to any holes that may be provided in disk 168. The top of thedisk 168 and the bottom of the cup 160 may be provided with indiciabearing labels 172 such that the receptacle means may assume thecommercial form shown in FIG. 23. If disk 168 is provided with openings170, the upper label 172 should be removed to expose the openings 170 asshown in FIG. 24 prior to placement of the receptacle means 158 in thefirst area or chamber 92 of the base 80. To create additional harboragevoid spaces either or both of the inner and outer side walls 164, 166and even the underside of the floor 162 of cup 160 may be provided withprotrusion means 174 for maintaining the cup in stable yet spacedrelation from the interior surfaces of the first chamber 92.

A plurality of receptacle means 158 may be stacked upon one anotherwithin the first chamber and may contain similar or dissimilar pastcontrol materials. A single receptacle means 158 or a plurality ofstacked receptacle means may be selected to be of sufficient outsidewall height such that, when placed in the first area 92, the size of theat least one pest access opening 112 may be reduced from itspredetermined unrestricted size to less than the predetermined size torestrict access to the pest control device to one or more selectedspecies of ground crawling pests.

FIG. 25 represents a further use of the modular pest control system 10of the present invention. According to this embodiment, the first area92 is fitted with a plurality of generally annular, disk-shaped,tacky-surfaced glueboards 176 age which may be supported in verticalspaced relation by a rack 178 having radial support spokes 180. It willbe understood that the first area 92 may receive a single glueboard andany other pest control material receiving areas of the base 80 may alsobe fitted with one or more glueboards of appropriate dimensions.

FIG. 26 illustrates a further modular pest control system according tothe present invention. The system, identified generally by referencenumeral 10 a, comprises a first component 12 in the form of a groundcrawling pest control device as discussed above. The second component 14according to this design is a subterranean termite tube 182, thestructural details of which will be described in greater detail inconnection with FIGS. 43 and 44. And, the first and second components12, 14 may be releasably connectable to one another by the aforesaidresilient means 16.

System 10 a enables simultaneous surface control of ground crawlingpests coupled with subterranean control of termites. Termites can be“out-competed” for pest control materials by certain ground crawlingpests. An advantage to system 10 a, therefore, is that it can reduce oreven prevent out-competing of termites by ants, slugs and other suchpests.

FIG. 27 represents a further embodiment of a ground crawling pestcontrol device, identified generally by reference numeral 12 a,according to the present invention. Similar to pest control device 12,device 12 a includes at least two areas of structurally and functionallydistinct construction for receiving at least two pest control materialsof substantially different physical consistency.

Pests moving up or down the legs of hospital beds, kitchen equipment,sinks, food preparation tables, storage shelving and related structuresmay be controlled using device 12 a. The device preferably includes anexpandable and contractable boot or sleeve 184 that may be formed fromnatural or artificial rubber, rubber-like compounds or other suitableelastomeric materials. The sleeve should be able to accommodate legs oflegged structures which typically range from about ½″ to about 1¾″ indiameter or similar cross-sectional dimension. As illustrated, boot 184is secured to a leg 186 of a legged structure. If desired or necessary,a clamp or adhesive tape may be used to supplement the grippingengagement of the boot 184 to leg 186. The lower end of the boot ispreferably attached to cover 188 which, in turn, is preferablyreleasably securable to 157 a generally cylindrical body 190 the lowerend of which terminates in an upwardly turned lip 192 defining annularopening 194 having a diameter sufficient to accommodate leg 186 and anyspecies of ground crawling pest likely to be found in the targetenvironment.

The undersurface of cover 188 preferably is provided with one or moresupport surfaces 196 suitable for receiving desired quantities ofsemisolid, tacky bait materials which can be suspended upside down. Lip192 and the adjacent bottom structure of body 190 define an annular cup198 suitable for receiving granular or liquid baits or a suitablyconfigured glueboard. The inner wall 200 of body 190 is preferablyroughened to enhance retention of residual pesticides that may besprayed, brushed or otherwise applied thereto.

A ground crawling pest which finds leg 186 may climb the leg andinitially encounter the semisolid bait received by support surfaces 196followed, possibly, by any residual baits on the inner wall 200 of body190. Ultimately, the pest falls into the cup 198 where it may consumeadditional bait or adhere to a glueboard.

FIGS. 28, 29 and 30 depict several views of a further ground crawlingpest control device according to the invention identified by referencenumeral 10 b which is especially adapted for accommodating the downwardwall movement and baseboard tracking effect of certain ground crawlingpests. Device 10 b includes a housing 202 plurality of tabs 204 havingopenings 206 for receiving unillustrated screws, nails or similar meansfor securing the device to a substantially planar surface such as thevertical wall surface 208 shown in FIG. 29. As also shown in thatfigure, tabs 204 may also be slid behind a baseboard 210.

As shown in FIG. 30, housing 202 is enclosable by a removable cover 212which allows the user to place baits or related pest control materialsand/or glueboards in several chambers provided in the housing 202. Thefirst of these chambers includes at least one an ant-specific chamber214 and adapted to receive granular or paste baits having holes 216sized to accommodate ants to the substantial exclusion of other groundcrawling pests. At least one second chamber 218 may be sized to receivea glueboard 220 (shown in dot-dash line) or roughened to enhanceretention of residual baits which may be sprayed, brushed or otherwiseapplied thereto. And, the at least one third chamber 222 includes atleast one support surface 224 for receiving granular or semisolidmaterials.

Device 10 b further preferably includes a funnel-like entrance 226defined by a pair of opposed ramps 228 which may include optional raisedsupport surfaces 230 for semisolid baits. The housing 202 and chambers214, 218 and 222 are preferably symmetrically arranged such that thedevice 10 b may be inverted to best fit with the wall and baseboardassembly adjacent which it is to be used.

FIGS. 31, 32 and 33 are various view of another ground crawling pestcontrol device according to the present invention. The device,identified generally by reference numeral 10 c, is particularly adaptedfor capturing fleas and other ground crawling pests. The devicecomprises a base 232 and a removable cover 234. The cover preferablyincludes a central funnel-shaped portion 236 which terminates in acentral opening 238. As illustrated in FIG. 31 the cover is preferablyperforated by a plurality of holes 240 for permitting release ofpheromones, growth regulators, heat, carbon dioxide, heat and/or lightwhich emanate from sources of same received in one or more compartments242 (FIG. 32).

The floor 244 of base 232 is preferably of suitable dimensions toreceive a glueboard 246 (shown in dot-dash line in FIG. 33). As alsoshown in that figure, the upstanding walls of base 232 preferablyinclude at lease one opening 248 for permitting entry into the device ofground crawling pests larger than ants. The interior of the base 232 isalso preferably provided with one or more chambers 250 for receivinggranular or liquid pest control materials. The walls of the base 232 arepreferably perforated by holes 252 adjacent chambers 250 which are sizedto accommodate ants to the substantial exclusion of other groundcrawling pests.

Although grouped herein with other ground crawling pests, adult fleasmove by jumping rather than crawling. Fleas are attracted to theaforementioned attractants contained in compartments 242 and jump togain access to the attractants. The large funnel-shaped portion 236receives the jumping flea and, upon contact therewith, the flea slidesdown the wall of the funnel through opening 238 and becomes entrapped onglueboard 246.

FIGS. 34 and 35 illustrate a further pest control device according tothe invention identified generally by reference numeral 10 d. Device 10d is adapted for control of flying pests such as ladybugs which arecapable of landing and walking and other species of ground crawlingpests. Device 10 d preferably comprises a base 254 and a removable cover256 which separate the device into a first compartment 258 forcontrolling flying pests and a second compartment 260 for controllingground crawling pests, particularly ants.

Preferably, the base and cover include a first plurality of holes 262 topermit ingress by ants. The interior of the second compartment includesfirst, second and third areas 264, 266 and 268 substantiallycorresponding in structure and function to the first area 92, the firstadditional area 100 and the second additional area 104 of base 80described above in connection with FIGS. 13 through 16. Ants maytherefore enter the second chamber through holes 262 and encounter avariety of granular, semisolid and/or bait materials that may becontained in second compartment 260.

As shown in FIG. 35, the side walls of first chamber 258 are preferablyperforated by holes 270 to enable release of pheromones or otherscent-based attractant contained in the chamber. The first chamber 258further preferably includes a pair of opposed funnel portions 272, 274.So constructed, a flying insect may either fall down into or crawlupwardly into the chamber 258 and become entrapped therein when theinsect attempts to again take flight and fails to exit the holes in thefunnel portions by virtue of its extended and moving wings anddifficulty finding the opening. Device 10 d may be affixed by adhesives,suction cups or similar means 16 (not illustrated) at locations whereflying insects are likely to be found such as window panes, doors andthe like.

FIG. 36 depicts a further pest control system according to the inventionidentified generally by reference numeral 10 e. Device 10 e is suitedfor controlling large and small ground crawling pests. The devicepreferably comprises a first component 12 and a second component 14which may be affixed to one another or releasably connectable viaresilient means such as resilient means 16 described supra. The firstcomponent 12 is constructed and functions substantially similar to thefirst component 12 of system 10 (FIGS. 1 and 14-21).

The second component of device 10 e is preferably a pitfall trapcomprising a pair of nested funnels 276, 278 having respective outletopenings 280, 282. Second component 14 is inserted into soil to a depthsuch that an undersurface of an outer annular rim 284 thereof comes intosubstantial contact with the ground surface. The rim 284 may be formedwith one or more downwardly directed vials 286 for holding water orother liquid pest attractants. Hole 282 permits drainage of water fromthe device.

The top 288 of the pitfall trap is provided with a first plurality oflarge holes 290 of a size sufficient to accommodate virtually any sizeof ground crawling pest. Top 288 also includes a second plurality ofsmall holes 292 sized to accommodate ants to the substantial exclusionof other ground crawling pests. Large pests enter holes 290 and slidedown funnel 276 through hole 280 and into the base of funnel 278. Thelarge pests cannot thereafter escape because, even if they successfullytraverse the walls of funnel 278, they cannot exit the small holes 292.The large pests eventually die and provide an excellent attractant forants which enter the holes 292 and feed on the dead pests. The ants sodrawn to the device may also investigate the first ground crawling pestdevice 12 and consume any toxicants contained therein.

FIGS. 37, 38, 39 and 40 illustrate a further pest control deviceaccording to the invention identified generally by reference numeral 10f. Device 10 f is designed to control at least one species of rodent andat least one species of ground crawling pest. Because device 10 f maycontain rodenticidal materials in one or more areas thereof, whichmaterials are especially toxic to humans, the interior of housing 294 ofthe device is preferably accessible only by inserting an appropriatekey-like release tool 296 into a plurality of lock or latch mechanisms298 provided in a pair of pivotally mounted access covers 300, 302.Covers 300, 302 permit the user selective access to a firstsubstantially enclosed compartment 304 for controlling rodents and atleast one additional second substantially enclosed compartment 306 forcontrolling at least one of ground crawling pests and rodents.

The first compartment includes at least one opening 308 for permittingingress by rodents. Rodent ingress opening(s) 308 may be sized andshaped to accommodate any desired species of rodent.

Because rodents have the ability to investigate and/or free themselvesfrom existing trapping devices, the present invention incorporates meansto effectively ensure entrapment. Such means comprises a launch surface310 disposed in advance of each opening 308 which is sufficientlydistant from the trapping means to prevent the rodent from probing theinterior of the compartment 304 with its front paws while retainingcontact by its rear paws with the exterior of the compartment. With thelaunch surface 310 sufficiently distant from the trapping means in thecompartment 304, the curious rodent must “commit” and leap with all fourlegs into the compartment and thereby be ensnared by suitable trappingmeans. The distance of the launch surface 310 from the trapping meanswill, of course, vary depending on the species of rodent targeted forcontrol by device 10 f.

Rodent trapping means suitable for use in first compartment 304 includeone or more snap traps 312 (FIG. 38) or at least one glueboard 314(shown in dot-dash line in FIG. 40). Snap trap(s) 312 may be permanentlymounted or removably mountable on first compartment 304. In the eventsnap traps 312 are used, the height of first compartment 304 will besufficient to permit unrestricted swinging motion of the dead fall arms314 from their set positions, as shown, to their trapping positions. Inaddition, when snap traps are grouped close to one another, the shockwhich occurs from the triggering of one trap may cause inadvertenttriggering of an adjacent trap, thereby disabling the adjacent trap. Toavoid this eventuality, device 10 f desirably includes means forabsorbing shock arising from triggering of one or the other of snaptraps 312. Suitable shock absorbing means preferably comprise a raisedpartition means 316 provided on the floor of the first compartment 304between the adjacent snap traps 312.

According to a presently preferred construction, the first compartment304 and the at least one additional compartment 306 are desirablyinterconnected to permit passage of at least one of rodents and groundcrawling pests therebetween. Suitable means for interconnecting thefirst and at least one additional compartments 304, 306 preferablyinclude at least one opening 318 (FIG. 40) to permit passage of groundcrawling pests between the first passage 304 and at least one secondcompartment 320 for controlling ground crawling pests, and at least oneopening 322 to permit passage of rodents between the first compartment304 and at least one third compartment 324.

The at least one second compartment 320 includes a first area 326 havinga first construction for receiving a first pest control material havinga first physical consistency, e.g., a support surface for receivingsemisolid material. The at least one second compartment 320 includes atleast one additional area having at least one additional constructionsubstantially different from said first construction for receiving atleast one additional pest control material having at least one physicalconsistency substantially different from the first physical consistency.For instance, the at least one additional area preferably comprises atray 328 for receiving granular and/or liquid pest control material. Theat least one third compartment 324 preferably includes a similar tray330 for receiving a third pest control material, e.g., a rodenticidalbait material. Trays 328, 330 are preferably removable and the presentlypreferred constructions thereof are depicted in FIGS. 41 and 42discussed below. And, the third compartment preferably further includesat least one of a wire 332 and a post 334 (FIG. 38) for supporting therodenticidal bait material in such fashion as to resist removal andhoarding of the bait material by rodents that encounter the baitmaterial.

As most clearly shown in FIGS. 39 and 40, at least one of the firstcompartment 304 and the at least one additional compartment 306 compriseramp means 336 for permitting ingress of ground crawling pests into thedevice 10 f. The at least one additional compartment 306 furthercomprises means for restricting access via the ramp means 336 to antsand other small ground crawling pests. Such access restricting meanspreferably comprise a gap 338 having a width of between about {fraction(1/64)} to about ⅜ inch.

As revealed in FIG. 39, device 10 f may be releasably attachable to asoil anchor such as anchor 18 described above via resilient means 16 forsoil installations. Alternatively, the undersurface of the undersurfaceof the housing 294 preferably includes at least large flat area 340 toreceive double sided tape or similar adhesive means (not shown) forfirmly but removably securing the device to an indoor floor or the like.

FIGS. 41 and 42 illustrate on an enlarged scale a presently preformedconstruction of removable trays 328, 330 suitable for use in device 10f. The trays may be fabricated from polyethylene, polypropylene or othersuitable moldable plastic material. The trays preferably include one ormore support flanges 342 for placement stability and tab means 344 whichcan be bent upwardly following molding of the trays (FIG. 42) tofacilitate grasping and, therefore, placement and removal of the traysfrom the second and/or third compartments 320, 324 of the at least oneadditional compartment 306. The top portions 346 of the trays mayreceive liquid and/or solid pest control materials and may includepartitions (not shown) to enable more than one type of material to beplaced therein at one time.

FIGS. 43 and 44 reveal structural details of a presently preferredsubterranean termite tube 182 constructed in accordance with the presentinvention. Tube 182 is preferably fabricated from high-impact, UVmodified polypropylene or other suitable substantially rigid material.It is preferably constructed as a pair of elongate, substantiallysemicylindrical, mirror-image housing members 348 which are unitableawith one another to assume the tube construction shown in FIG. 44.Suitable means for joining the housing members 348 include a pluralityof resilient latch fingers 350 adapted for releasable engagement withcorresponding detents 352, whereby the fingers 350 of one housing memberreleasably engage with the detents 352 of the other housing member. Thebottom of each housing member 348 is preferably open as at 356 tofacilitate ingress of termites therein. At least the lower portion ofeach housing member desirably includes a plurality of openings 358 toprovide additional opportunities for termite access. And, the top of thetube 182 is preferably provided with resilient means 16 whereby it mayanchor and be releasably securable to a first pest control component 12in the manner shown in FIG. 26.

FIGS. 45 and 46 illustrate a first preferred application of the termitetube 182. As seen in FIG. 45 a pair of pieces of substantially rigidpest control material 360 such as blocks of soft woods, e.g., spruce,fir, pine or the like, are disposed end-to-end with respect to oneanother. According to this embodiment the blocks 360, 362 should beunattached to one another and unattached to either of the housingmembers 348. Additionally, the lower block 360 should project from thebottom 356 of the housing members 348 such that it contacts the soil andabsorbs moisture, thereby rendering it more attractive to termites.

The disconnected arrangement of blocks 360 and 362 allows tubing, thecreation of galleries and similar evidence of termite activity to occurin the tube 182 without requiring disruptive inspection which aftercauses termites to leave existing termite monitoring systems known inthe art which distorts the accuracy of the monitoring process. That is,by being disconnected from one another, the user may gently slide theupper block 362 out of the tube 182 as shown on FIG. 46. and examine itwhile leaving the lower block 360 in place, hence allowing the termitestherein to continue their tunneling and tubing activities with little onor no disturbance. The user may then gently replace the block 362 orsubstitute it with a similarly shaped block coated or impregnated with asuitable termiticidal bait material. Unlike existing termitemonitoring/baiting stations wherein the monitoring material iscompletely removed and replaced by the baiting material which causesconsiderable disruption of the nest, the present invention allows someof the monitoring material to remain in situ and undisturbed throughoutthe monitoring process, thereby improving the integrity and accuracy ofthe process. Additionally, either or both of blocks 360, 362 may beprovided with at least cavity (not shown) to further promote termiteactivity therein.

FIGS. 47, 48, 49 and 50 represent several views of a termite controlmaterial 364 according to the present invention which suitable for usein termite tube 182 or similar such tubes heretofore known in the art.Termite control material 364 is preferably fabricated from substantiallyrigid foam material such as expanded polystyrene, or the like. Suchmaterials are frequently used as insulation in building construction.When used as such, these materials have been demonstrated a propensityfor infestation by termites. Clearly, such materials are insulative andthus may serve as shelter, but they also tend to release gases such ascarbon dioxide gas which may serve as an intoxicant-type attractant totermites. Rigid foams last longer than wood because of their inherentresistance to rot and decay and are therefore especially advantageousfor use as termite control material.

Other benefits of such materials, from a manufacturing perspective, arethat they are generally inexpensive, can be easily formed with featuresthat attract termites and can be readily impregnated with termicidalagents. For instance, they may be formed with cavities such as largecentral cavity 366 which can increase the surface area for termiteactivity and visual inspection. Smaller cavities 368 may also beprovided to hold attractants such as water to further stimulate termiteactivity. The cavities 366, 368 may extend entirely through the foammaterial 364 or, as illustrated, only partially therethrough. They canassume any relative size, number and arrangement; compare, for example,FIGS. 47 and 50. They can be used to store food such as sawdust, wood orwood byproducts as additional attractants or replaceable vials, spongesor wicks for retaining water or other liquid. Furthermore, ifsufficiently large in diameter, any of the cavities 366, 368 as well asthe outer peripheral wall of the foam material may be provided withgrooves, slots or similar formations 370 for further stimulating termiteactivity in the foam.

Grooves 370 may assume essentially any cross-sectional configuration butshould range from about ⅛ to about ½ inch in depth and width to provideattractive and ideal termite tubing surfaces.

FIG. 51 illustrates a further termite control device according to theinvention identified generally by reference numeral 372. Device 372includes a housing 374 defining a pocket 376 and on open side 378. Asubstantially rigid termite control material 380 is provided in thepocket 376 and may include any of the wood or foam materials describedabove. The material 380 may include one or more cavities 382 for holdingany suitable food, water and/or bait attractants.

Housing 374 further includes means in the form of perforated tabs 384 orthe like for securing the housing to termite damaged wood 386 via nails,screws or similar fasteners 388. The housing is disposed such that theopen side 378 faces the termite damaged wood 386 and the termite controlmaterial 380 is in substantial contact with the termite damaged wood.Housing 374 further preferably includes a removable cover 390 forpermitting access to the pocket 376 without detaching the device 372from the termite damaged wood. Optionally, the housing 374 may have anouter wall 392 defining a chamber 394 formed interiorly of the wall forreceiving a liquid pest control material such as water through anopening 396. Alternatively, the liquid material may be retained inchamber 394 via an unillustrated sponge or wick.

FIG. 52 reveals a further presently preferred modular pest controlsystem according to the present invention identified generally byreference numeral 10 g. System 10 g may include several of theaforedescribed first and second components 12, 14 such as the groundcrawling pest control device illustrated in FIGS. 13 through 21, thesoil anchor 18 of FIG. 1 and/or the subterranean termite tube 182 ofFIGS. 43 and 44 (including foam material 364).

In addition, FIG. 52 reveals further features of the invention which maybe used alone or in combination with any of the other components orelements thus far described. For example, the several first components12 of FIG. 52 may connected to a common base 398. Moreover, thecentralmost first component illustrated may be a substantiallyhorizontally oriented pest control device 400 which may include meansfor releasably connecting device 400 to termite tube 182. Termitecontrol 209 device 400 resembles a substantially inverted bowl andcomprises a housing 402 of at least about 3 inches to about 18 inches orgreater in length, width or diameter to produce a large ground “shadow”attractive to may pests. Housing 402 further desirably includesremovable cover 404 for enabling access to a pocket 406 which maysupport one or more blocks 408 of substantially rigid wood or foamtermite control material which may include one or more of the cavitiesand/or slots discussed hereinabove in connection with FIGS. 47 through50. Common base 398 includes one or more openings 410 to permit ingressof termites into device 400.

Because of the above-described cable effect, many ground crawling pestand termites tend to travel along the upper surfaces of pipes, cables,hoses and the like whether disposed at or beneath the ground surface.Device 10 g accommodates this pest movement behavior characteristicthrough the provision of at least one substantially cylindrical trackwaymeans 412. the trackway means 412 may be attached to one or more of thepest control devices illustrated in FIG. 52 and project therefrom in anydesired direction and at any desired angle.

The trackway means may be flexible, semirigid or rigid any may compriserods, tubes, wires, cords or strings. Suitable materials for trackways412 may include rigid or bendable metals and plastics and other naturalor artificial materials.

FIG. 53 reveals a further modular pest control system according to theinvention, identified generally by reference numeral 10 h, which is inmany respects similar to system 10 g of FIG. 52. In the system of FIG.53, however, the substantially horizontally disposed termite controldevice, herein identified by reference numeral 400 a includes a housing402 a having one or more internal chambers 414 for receiving water or,alternatively, bait materials for pests other than termites. Thechambers may also include pest access/drip holes 416 to allow the pestattractants such as water to drain from the chambers 414 and attractpests to the area below the station. Similarly, the housing of thesubterranean termite tube 182 may include water or similar pestattractant chamber means 418 and drip holes 420.

In addition, trackway means 412 do not have to be attached to the deviceto obtain the benefits of the cable effect. Accordingly, the proximateends thereof may be spaced a short distance from the device as reflectedin FIG. 53. Somewhat greater latitude may then be afforded the user inhow the trackway means may be disposed with respect to the device.

It will be understood that, to the extent it may be desirable ornecessary for effective pest control, any of the various elements andcomponents disclosed herein may be used with any other such elements orcomponents where such use is structurally and functionally feasible.

Although the invention has been described in detail for the purpose ofillustration, it is to be understood that such detail is solely for thatpurpose and that variations can be made therein by those skilled in theart without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention exceptas it may be limited by the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular pest control system comprising: a firstcomponent comprising a first pest control device for controlling a firstspecies of pest; a second component comprising a second pest controldevice for controlling a second species of pest different from saidfirst species of pest; and resilient means for connecting said first andsecond components, wherein said second pest control device comprises asubterranean pest attractant.
 2. The system of claim 1 wherein saidresilient means comprise at least one resilient member carried by one ofsaid first and second components for releasably engaging cooperatingstructure carried by the other of said first and second components. 3.The system of claim 2 wherein said at least one resilient membercomprises a plurality of resilient members.
 4. The system of claim 2wherein said at least one resilient member is a spring clip, said springclip including a lip operable to engage said cooperating structure whensaid first and second components are connected to one another.
 5. Thesystem of claim 4 wherein said cooperating structure includes recessmeans for receiving said lip.
 6. The system of claim 2 wherein saidcooperating structure includes cam means for urging flexure of said atleast one resilient member to facilitate connection of said first andsecond components.
 7. A modular pest control system comprising: a firstcomponent comprising a first pest control device; a second componentcomprising a second pest control device; and resilient means forconnecting said first and second components, wherein said second pestcontrol device comprises a subterranean pitfall trap.
 8. A modular pestcontrol system comprising: a first pest control device for controlling afirst species of ground crawling pests; a second pest control devicedisposed underground for controlling a second species of ground crawlingpests different from said first species; and means for releasablyconnecting said first and second pest control devices.
 9. A pest controlsystem comprising: a first substantially vertically oriented pestcontrol device disposed in soil; and a second substantially horizontallyoriented pest control device disposed above said first pest controldevice, said second substantially horizontally oriented pest controldevice comprising means for controlling ground crawling pests; and,means for connecting and said substantially vertically oriented and saidsubstantially horizontally oriented devices.
 10. The system of claim 9,wherein said means for connecting comprise means for releasablyconnecting said substantially vertically oriented and said substantiallyhorizontally oriented devices.
 11. A modular pest control systemcomprising: a first component comprising a first pest control device; asecond component comprising a second pest control device; and resilientmeans for connecting said first and second components, wherein saidfirst pest control device comprises a ground crawling pest controldevice and said second pest control device comprises a termite baitdevice.
 12. The system of claim 1, wherein said first pest controldevice includes at least two different pest control compartments, eachof the at least two different pest control compartments being adaptedfor receiving a different type of pest control material.
 13. The systemof claim 7, wherein said subterranean pitfall trap comprises at leasttwo concentric funnels.
 14. The system of claim 13, wherein a first ofsaid at least two concentric funnels has a first diameter, and a secondof said at least two concentric funnels has a second diameter less thansaid first diameter.
 15. The system of claim 13, wherein a first of saidat least two concentric funnels includes openings therein for receivingsmall ground crawling pests, and a second of said at least twoconcentric funnels includes openings therein for receiving large groundcrawling pests.
 16. A modular pest control system comprising: a firstcomponent comprising a first pest control device; a second componentcomprising a second pest control device; and resilient means forconnecting said first and second components, wherein said second pestcontrol device comprises a subterranean pitfall trap, and wherein saidsecond pest control device further comprises at least one vial forretaining liquid pest control material.
 17. The system of claim 9,wherein said first substantially vertically oriented pest control devicecomprises at least two concentric funnels.
 18. The system of claim 17,wherein a first of said at least two concentric funnels has a firstdiameter, and a second of said at least two concentric funnels has asecond diameter less than said first diameter.
 19. A modular pestcontrol system comprising: a first component comprising a first pestcontrol device; a second component comprising a second pest controldevice; and resilient means for connecting said first and secondcomponents, further comprising trackways coupled to the second pestcontrol device.
 20. The system of claim 19, wherein the trackwayscomprise rods extending into the ground from the second pest controldevice.
 21. A modular pest control system comprising: a first componentcomprising a first pest control device; a second component comprising asecond pest control device; and resilient means for connecting saidfirst and second components, further comprising trackway means forinducing pest movement.
 22. The system of claim 21, wherein saidtrackway means is coupled to the second pest control device.
 23. Amodular pest control system comprising: a first pest control device forcontrolling ground crawling pests; a second pest control device disposedunderground for controlling ground crawling pests; and means forreleasably connecting said first and second pest control devices,further comprising trackways coupled to the second pest control device.24. A modular pest control system comprising: a first pest controldevice for controlling ground crawling pests; a second pest controldevice disposed underground for controlling ground crawling pests; andmeans for releasably connecting said first and second pest controldevices, further comprising trackway means for inducing pest movement.25. A pest control system comprising: a first pest control device forcontrolling a first species of pest; and a second pest control devicedisposed proximate said first pest control device also for controllingsaid first species of pest, further comprising trackways coupled to thesecond pest control device.
 26. A pest control system comprising: afirst pest control device for controlling a first species of pest; and asecond pest control device disposed proximate said first pest controldevice also for controlling said first species of pest, furthercomprising trackway means for inducing pest movement.